Utilities Operator I/II (Water & Wastewater Systems)

City of McFarland

Utilities Operator Series - Water & Wastewater Systems (I, II-Lead)

Department: Public Works

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Employment Status: Full-Time

Reports To: Utilities Manager (levels I–II); Utilities Operator III may act in absence of Manager

Status: Full-Time

CLASS SERIES SUMMARY

The Utilities Operator series is a progressive classification responsible for the operation, maintenance, repair, and supervision of the City’s water distribution and wastewater collection systems. This series provides a career ladder from entry-level trainees through working supervisor, with increasing responsibility, independence, technical expertise, and leadership expectations at each level.

Advancement within the series is based on demonstrated competency, certifications, performance, and operational needs, and is not automatic.

UTILITIES OPERATOR I

Salary Range: Range 32 – $28.34 to $36.27 per hour

Position Summary

This position is responsible for assisting with the maintenance and operation of the City’s water and wastewater systems. Work is performed under close supervision and is intended to develop fundamental technical, safety, and operational skills.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the entry-level classification in the Utilities Operator series. Incumbents perform routine and basic duties while receiving training. Advancement to Utilities Operator II is based on experience, certification, and demonstrated proficiency.

Essential Duties

• Follow safe work practices related to water distribution, wastewater collection, storm drain, and fiber optic infrastructure.
• Assist with installation, maintenance, and repair of water mains, services, hydrants, valves, and related appurtenances.
• Operate pumps, valves, chlorination equipment, and basic system controls under supervision.
• Collect routine water and wastewater samples and assist with basic analysis.
• Perform routine maintenance including lubrication, cleaning of wells and booster stations, and minor equipment servicing.
• Locate underground utilities and maintain Underground Service Alert (USA) records.
• Turn water services on/off, remove or seal meters as directed.
• Provide customer service and respond to questions or complaints.
• Assist with traffic control and emergency response activities.
• Maintain basic records, logs, and reports.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Two (2) years of relevant experience in water distribution and/or treatment
• Valid California Class C Driver’s License; must obtain Class B
• Grade II Water Distribution or Treatment Certificate and Grade I Wastewater Certificate (State of California)
• Participation in DOT Drug and Alcohol Program

UTILITIES OPERATOR II (LEAD)

Salary Range: Range 36 – $31.28 to $40.04 per hour

Position Summary

Performs skilled work in the operation, maintenance, and repair of the City’s water and wastewater systems. Works with minimal supervision and may serve as a lead worker on assigned crews and projects.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the journey-level classification in the series. Incumbents perform complex tasks independently and provide technical guidance to Utilities Operator I staff. Promotion to this level is competitive and not automatic.

Essential Duties

• Perform skilled maintenance, inspection, and repair of water and wastewater infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot pumps, motors, valves, meters, chemical feed systems, lift stations, and telemetry systems.
• Conduct field inspections for leaks, blockages, equipment failures, and compliance issues.
• Install and replace water and sewer lines, meters, and services.
• Collect samples and conduct field testing in compliance with regulations.
• Maintain accurate records, logs, work orders, and reports.
• Operate heavy equipment including vactor trucks, backhoes, trenchers, and dump trucks.
• Respond to customer service requests and emergency callouts.
• Participate in on-call and standby rotations.
• Provide training and guidance to Utilities Operator I staff and serve as lead on minor projects.
• Assist with regulatory compliance and inspections.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Four (4) years of relevant experience in water distribution and treatment
• Valid California Class C and Class B Driver’s Licenses
• Grade II Water Distribution and Treatment Certificates and Grade II Wastewater Certificate
• Participation in DOT Drug and Alcohol Program 
• 
  

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS (ALL LEVELS)

• City-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents
• Life insurance equal to one year of base salary (minimum $50,000)
• Retirement: City contributes 10% of pay each pay period to a 401(k) plan
• Optional supplemental life insurance
• Optional Deferred Compensation 457 Plan
• Section 125 Plan participation
• 12 days’ vacation and 12 days sick leave annually
• 12 paid holidays
• 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off)

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of McFarland is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with the ADA, reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request during any stage of the recruitment process.

Utilities Operator I – Minimum Requirements

• At least two (2) years of experience in water distribution, water treatment, wastewater collection, or closely related utility operations

• Possession of a Grade II Water Distribution Certificate or Grade II Water Treatment Certificate

• Possession of a Grade I Wastewater Collection Certificate, or ability to obtain within a specified probationary period

Utilities Operator II (Lead) – Minimum Requirements

• At least four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in water distribution, water treatment, and/or wastewater collection operations

• Possession of a Grade II Water Distribution Certificate

• Possession of a Grade II Water Treatment Certificate

• Possession of a Grade II Wastewater Collection Certificate

• Possession of a valid California Class B Driver’s License